BRPI0715622A2 - system for dynamic sealing of at least one conduit through which a pipe or cable extends - Google Patents

Abstract

A system for providing a sealed transit for a situation wherein one or a plurality of cables, pipes or ducts (2) extend through the transit, wherein the system comprises a frame (100) which is sealingly fixed or fixable into or onto an opening, wherein the frame (100) comprises one or a plurality of conduits (203) which are each suitable for receiving at least one of the plurality of cables, pipes or ducts (2) and for receiving an elastically deformable plug (4) for sealingly filling space between an inner circumferential wall of the conduits (203) and the at least one of the plurality of cables, pipes or ducts (2), wherein the system further comprises at least one blocking element (37) for hindering in each conduit (203) movement of one end of a plug (4) which is inserted in that conduit (203).

Description

f 1/43

"SYSTEM FOR DYNAMIC SEALING AT LEAST ONE CONDUCT THROUGH A PIPE OR CABLE"

The present invention relates to a system for providing a sealed passageway for a situation where one or a plurality of cables, pipes or ducts extend through said passageway.

The invention further relates to an opening sealing system through which at least one pipe, cable or duct extends through a duct sleeve which is snap-fitted and sealed to or corresponding to the opening perimeter. with the opening.

This opening may comprise a tubular passageway in a floor, deck, wall or room. Another possibility is that the opening comprises a tube in which another tube is at least partially received.

Such a system is used, for example, in the case where two tubes have mutually different diameters connected together so that a fluid can circulate through both tubes. One of the pipes, for example, may form a housing utility connection and have a diameter smaller than a pipe forming the main line or a branch thereof. Such pipes may be used, for example, to transport water, gas, oils, liquids, chemicals, etc. The space located between the pipes is referred to as being sealed by a system to which the present invention relates. f 2/43

It is also possible that cables, for example for telephone, electricity and television, are fed through these connected pipes. Another possibility is the use of the system as a seal between fiberglass cables and protective tubes. This system can also be used for building walls, in particular foundations walls and floors, as well as ceilings or ceilings where, through "missing pieces of plastic pipe", open passageways are left in the poured concrete for water supply. or gas or cables through pipes. Of course, the passage can also be provided with a concrete base with the aid of a drilling method. The space between the duct and the inner wall of the "lost pipe part" or the drilled hole can then be sealed with a system to which the invention relates.

In addition, the system to which the invention relates may be used in the construction and / or maintenance of new buildings, ships and offshore installations. The sections of such constructions are usually formed by placing prefabricated divisions according to a predetermined design in the case of vessels on a shipyard quay. Even before the divisions are placed, leaky feed pipes can be provided in the divisions, for example with the aid of a welding method. Such leaking feed pipes may be in the form of a duct sleeve as noted above. After the duct is fed through the feed pipe, a system to which the invention relates may be provided to seal a space between the inner wall of the feed pipe and the feed pipe. It is further possible that the casting feed pipe and the duct, cable or pipe fed therethrough are made of different materials comprising metal. This is made possible by the fact that there will be no contact between the leaking feed pipe and the duct, cable or pipe fed through it so that galvanic corrosion is at least virtually prevented. 0 space between the inner wall of the

duct and at least one pipe or duct will simply be referred to in this report as "the space".

GB 2186442 describes a cable and pipe passage system. The system comprises a metal frame having an opening filled with hollow lead blocks and stamped blocks. Poured lead blocks comprise two halves of blocks which may together form a block having an opening through which a tube, cable or duct may be fed. In other words, two halves of the cast lead blocks may involve a pipe, cable or duct. Each pipe, cable or duct thus is surrounded by at least two blocks. The remaining space of the opening is filled with the stamped blocks. Thus, the space between the inner wall of the duct sleeve, in the present case a metal frame, and the pipes, ducts or cables extending through the duct sleeve or the metal frame, is filled with blocks. It is possible for a strut plate to be positioned between each layer of blocks. Then, pressure is applied to the assembled blocks to compress the blocks around the cable, pipe or duct to seal the leaked lead blocks around the cable, pipe or duct, and to subject them together against the sidewalls of the duct structure or sleeve and the anchor plate. For such purpose the system comprises a compression and tightening system. Pressure can be applied by a system that requires tightening nuts or compression bolts. The forces required for compression are quite high and partly passed to the pipe or cable included in the duct, usually non-hydrostatically. This system cannot distribute the load evenly across the block stack. In fact, the pipe or cable included in the duct will carry a portion of the load and prevent even distribution. Blocks that are much less subject to compression "to the degree of pipe or duct included in the duct" can easily be forced out. Another problem is irreversible rubber deformation, which reduces the flexibility of the flow system, which can be detrimental when a part of the system is suddenly exposed to much higher pressure.

In addition to the fact that the system is difficult to install, time consuming, costly and requires great inventory control, the system still functions poorly over long processing times. Rubber, even if it is vulcanized rubber, has a natural decomposition that occurs over time. When the rubber has not been properly saturated or vulcanized, chemical decomposition may also occur. This increases the overall decomposition of rubber. As a consequence, the compression bolts or nuts of the compression and tightening system described in GB 2186442 often need to be retightened. A further problem is that a temperature change will, due to thermal expansion or shrinkage, result in loosening or over-tightening of the compression bolts, which respectively provides weakening of the seal and irreversible rubber deformation.

In particular, when plastic braided plastic tubes or cables extend through the metal frame or duct sleeve, the outer surface of these plastic tubes or cables is subjected to an internal radial pressure and the outer diameter of these plastic tubes may decrease due to to the phenomenon known as "drag". If this occurs, the compression and compression system bolts and nuts should be retightened even more frequently as the integrity of the seal provided by the compressed rubber blocks and compressed plastic tubing decreases radially due to to the physical phenomena of drag and decomposition. However, no matter how often the compression bolts and / or nuts are retightened; Immediately after such tightening, the phenomena of rubber breakdown and dragging of a plastic pipe will continue to occur so that the integrity of the seal immediately deteriorates.

Thunderhorse, the largest and most advanced semi-submersible platform in the world, was found to have a slope of about 20-30 degrees after experiencing the passing of Hurricane "Dennis" in the Gulf of Mexico. While so far no conclusive explanation has been reported for this slope, preliminary research findings indicate that the movement of water between access spaces occurred through multiple cable passages, which were equipped with a system similar to that cited in the patent document. GB 2186442.

Systems are known in which a rubber ring is coaxially placed in a duct sleeve, around a tube included in a duct. The rubber ring is then compressed between ring-shaped steel plates. While this causes the production of equal angularly applied radial forces, the problems of rubber decomposition and, in the case of plastic tubes, the problems of dragging, require frequent re-tightening of the compressing steel plates.

WO 2004/111513 describes a system, in more detail, a plug made of an elastically shaped material for insertion into a space between an inner wall of a duct sleeve and a pipe, cable or duct extending. through that glove. The plug may comprise two segmental longitudinal portions for forming a sealing plug which may be received in said space. The longitudinal parts are individually provided with an outer side which comprises a number of spaced apart outer ridges in a longitudinal direction for execution when in use of annular contact surfaces which are closed in themselves in one direction. between the sealing plug and the inner wall of the opening. Each of the longitudinal parts is further provided on the inner side of a number of inner ridges for execution when in use of annular contact surfaces which are closed in themselves in a peripheral direction between the sealing cap and the tube. , cable or duct extending through the opening. Each of the longitudinal parts is further provided with an outer collar, ideally placed against an outer edge of the opening. When the plug is assembled, these collars are part of a flange, such that forces can be exerted on the flange for insertion of the longitudinal parts. The flange is designed so that it can be placed against the outer edge of the opening. Thus, the outer edge of the opening is covered by the flange. The flange further ensures an equal insertion so that the outer ridges of the longitudinal portions are aligned to form the annular contact surfaces and so that the inner ridges are aligned also to form the annular contact surfaces.

An advantage of this sealing system is that it is quite easy to insert, and after grease application to the longitudinal parts, manual insertion may be possible. An additional advantage is that it is very unlikely that the plug will then be pushed into the duct or opening sleeve even when very high pressure is not applied to the flange. It has been observed that this sealing system retains its sealing integrity also when very high pressure is applied to the side of the plug that is first inserted into the duct opening or sleeve. Only after sufficiently high pressure is applied to such end of the plug can the plug be forced out of the duct or opening sleeve. Another advantage is that the ridges provide some flexibility to the sealing system so that there is no need for retightening. When the rubber decomposes, the ridges are still providing annular contact surfaces and thus the seal remains intact. This response also applies to the unlikely occurrence of dragging, which could result in a smaller diameter of a plastic pipe that extends through the duct opening or sleeve. However, as indicated, the drag itself is unlikely to occur as the actual radial load applied to a plastic tube extending through the duct sleeve will, due to the decomposition of the rubber, decrease over time. , so the possible occurrence of dragging will come slowly rather than accelerated.

While the system described in WO 2004/111513 A1 works satisfactorily, there remains a need for sealing systems that can maintain a sudden increase in pressure applied to one end of the sealing system.

It is a first object of one embodiment of the invention to meet this need.

A second object of one embodiment of the invention is to provide a system that meets the first objective and is suitable for providing a sealed passageway for a situation where one or a plurality of cables, pipes or ducts extend through the passageway.

The first object of the invention is achieved by providing a system for dynamically sealing an opening through which at least one pipe, cable or duct extends through a duct sleeve which is snap-fitted and sealed to the perimeter of the opening. opening or that corresponds with the opening. The system comprises at least one resiliently deformable plug which may be inserted and sealed into the duct sleeve. The cap has two ends, an outer side and an inner side. Each end has dimensions that allow it to fit into the duct sleeve, the outer side comprising a number of outer ribs having spaced apart ridges in a longitudinal direction of the plug for implementation of annular contact surfaces between the plug and the peripheral wall. inner sleeve. The inner side comprises a number of inner ribs having spaced apart ridges in a longitudinal direction of the plug for implementation of annular contact surfaces between the plug and at least one of said cable, tube or duct. The inner side and / or the outer side are provided with at least one hinged surface area to facilitate compression of the plug in the longitudinal direction and in a transverse movement of at least one of the inner and outer ribs.

As each end has dimensions that allow it to fit into the duct sleeve, the plug can be integrally inserted into the sleeve. When at one end of the plug a very high pressure is applied, that end will initially be pressed toward the other end. The swivelable surface area will facilitate compression of the plug in the longitudinal direction. The transverse movement of at least one of the inner or outer ribs ensures that the seal is actually improved when compression occurs. When high pressure is applied to one end of the sealing plug, the seal is tightened itself then into the space between the inner duct wall and the pipe, cable or duct extending through the duct sleeve. In other words, the fence begins to act dynamically.

It should be noted that the system does not consistently apply too high a pressure to a plastic pipe that extends through the duct sleeve through the opening. Very high radial pressure only occurs when high pressure is applied to one end of the plug. Consequently, dragging of the plastic tube is unlikely to occur to a considerable degree.

In one embodiment of a system according to the invention, the pivotable surface is provided with two adjacent sloping surfaces, two adjacent ridges. In such an embodiment, it is facilitated that at least two ridges move in a transverse direction when the plug is being compressed in the longitudinal direction. In addition, there may be a large number of ribs to a longitudinal extent. It is possible that between each set of two adjacent ribs an articulated surface will be provided. In other words, the longitudinal extension of the plug is used quite efficiently. This increases the overall sealing ability after insertion without applying a pressure wave to one end of the plug, and even more when the pressure wave is applied to one end of the plug.

One embodiment of a system according to the invention further comprises a locking element to prevent, when in use, an external pressure gradient from being present between the ends of the plug and a movement of the downstream end of the plug downstream of the plug. pressure gradient. This not only ensures that an equal insertion can occur leading to rib alignment so that the annular contact surfaces are properly formed, but it also ensures that the plug will be compressed rather than being fully moved into the sleeve. downstream of the external pressure gradient. This further facilitates the improvement of sealing ability. Such a system can withstand a shockwave due to, for example, a sudden sinking into the water, an explosion, a hurricane, or perhaps even a tsunami. Experiments have indicated that the plug will retain its sealing integrity when the pressure difference between both ends of the plug is up to 15 bar (which is a pressure present 150 meters below the water surface).

This applies in particular to one embodiment of a system according to the invention wherein two plugs as described above are situated on the duct sleeve and a locking element is situated between these two plugs. In this case, the system will dynamically seal regardless of the direction of the external pressure gradient. In each situation, one of the plugs will be compressed thereby increasing its sealing contact surfaces and applying a higher normal load to these contact surfaces so that the overall seal improves dramatically.

Also, an embodiment of a system according to the invention, wherein at least two locking elements are applied to prevent, in use, simultaneous and equal movement relative to the conduit of both ends of the buffer downstream of an external gradient. pressure, has these advantages. Regardless of the direction of the pressure gradient, the plug will always compress and improve its sealing performance.

The invention further relates to a passage system comprising a plug as described above and a duct sleeve.

The invention further relates to a method for sealing a space in a duct sleeve between an inner wall of the duct sleeve and at least one pipe, cable or duct extending through the duct sleeve. The second objective is achieved by

described in independent claim 1.

The invention will now be elucidated by describing a nonlimiting example with the aid of drawings. In the drawings: Figure 1 schematically shows, in perspective, one embodiment of a system according to the invention; Figure 2 schematically shows in perspective a longitudinal part of one embodiment of a system according to the invention; Figure 3 schematically shows a longitudinal section view of a system according to the invention;

Fig. 4 schematically shows a cross section of a longitudinal part of a system according to the embodiment shown in Fig. 3; Figure 5 schematically shows a plug as mounted by the longitudinal portions according to Figure 3, and as received in the space between an inner wall of a duct sleeve and a tube, cable or duct received in the duct sleeve;

Fig. 6 schematically shows a partial cross-section of a longitudinal part according to Fig. 3 as received in the space shown in Fig. 5;

Fig. 7 schematically shows a further embodiment of a system according to the invention;

Fig. 8 schematically shows a further embodiment of a system according to the invention;

Fig. 9 schematically shows a further embodiment of a system according to the invention;

Figure 10 schematically shows a further embodiment of a system according to the invention;

Figure 11 schematically shows a further embodiment of a system according to the invention;

Figure 12 schematically shows a top view of a further embodiment of a system according to the invention;

Figure 13 schematically shows a cross-sectional view along line 1-1, viewed in the direction of arrow V, as indicated in Figure 12;

Fig. 14 schematically shows a perspective view of one embodiment of which the top view is shown in Fig. 12;

Fig. 15 schematically shows in perspective an additional embodiment of a system according to the invention; Figure 16 schematically shows in perspective an additional embodiment of a system according to the invention;

Figure 17 schematically shows in perspective a part of one embodiment of a system according to FIG.

invention; and

Figure 18 schematically shows in perspective a part of one embodiment of a system according to the invention.

In the drawings, similar parts have

Similar references.

Figure 1 shows a division (1) which, for better understanding, is shown with a cut portion. Division (1) divides two compartments (I), (II). The division (1) comprises an opening through which a tube (2) extends. Where in this report a pipe is referred to as below, the pipe may also be a duct or cable. A duct sleeve (3) corresponds with the opening. It is also possible to consider the duct sleeve (3) as being snap-fit and sealed to the perimeter of the opening. In general, the duct glove is an example of a duct that is suitable for receiving one or more cables, pipes or ducts. This conduit is further suitable for receiving an elastically deformable plug to seal the fill space between an inner peripheral wall of the conduit and the pipe, cable or duct member extending therein. The system may comprise such resiliently deformable plug, which may be snap-fitted and sealed to the duct sleeve (3) as shown in Figure 1. The dividing wall (1) may be a steel wall. The flue sleeve

(3) may also be made of steel and, in fact, may comprise a steel pipe. 0 steel pipe can be welded

inside the room opening (1). The plug (4) may comprise a single piece which is suitable for situations where the plug (4) may be inserted into the duct sleeve (3) before the tube (2) extends through the duct sleeve ( 3). However, most of the time, the buffer

(4) will be a set of at least two segmental longitudinal parts (5). In this case, the plug (4) may also be shaped and inserted when a tube (2) extends through the duct sleeve (3) prior to insertion.

of the buffer (4). The division between these two segmental longitudinal portions of the plug 4 as shown in Figure 1 is represented by a dashed line. A perspective view of a longitudinal portion (5) of the cap (4) is shown in Figure 2. Figure 3 schematically shows a view of

an inner side (6) of a longitudinal part (5) of a system according to the present invention. Two of such longitudinal parts (5) may together form a plug (4). The upper part (UP) and the lower part (LP) of Figure 3 correspond to a cross section along a longitudinal direction (L) of a longitudinal part.

(5). The cross section shown in the upper part (UP) of figure 3 is shown enlarged in figure 4. The segmental longitudinal part (5) is provided with an external side (7). This outer side (7) comprises a number of outer ribs (8) having ridges (8a) spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the cap (4) for forming annular contact surfaces (9) (see figure 5) between the plug (4) and an inner peripheral wall (10) of the duct sleeve (3). The inner side (6) is comprised of a number of inner ribs (11) having ridges (11a) spaced apart in a longitudinal direction of the plug (4) for forming annular contact surfaces (12) between the plug (4) ) and the tube (2). The term "spaced apart" includes a situation in which the ribs have a portion that is detached from the neighboring rib. However, "spaced apart" does not exclude a situation in which the ribs are adjacent to each other.

In this exemplary embodiment, the inner side (6) is provided with a number of hinged surface areas (15) to facilitate compression of the plug (4) in the longitudinal direction (L) and a transverse movement of at least one of the inner ribs ( 11) and / or external (8). This pivotable surface area 15 is shown in Figure 4, indicated by a circle represented by a dashed line. In this embodiment, the pivotable surface area (15) is provided with two adjacent sloping surfaces (14) of two adjacent inner ribs (11). In this example, the articulated surface area (15) is provided on the inner side (6). It can be observed that the inner side is provided with four articulating areas (15). Of course, it is also possible that the inner side (6) is provided with only an articulating surface area (15). However, the more articulated surface areas (15) are provided, the easier the compression of the plug (4) in the longitudinal direction will be. In addition, the greater the number of articulating surface areas provided by the two adjacent sloping surfaces (14) of the two adjacent inner ribs (11), the greater the number of inner ribs (11) that will experience ease in transverse movement. The manner in which the hinged surface areas (15) result in the possibility of dynamically sealing will be explained later. At the present stage it is indicated that although the articulating surface areas (15) are shown in this example to be provided on the inner side (6), one or more articulating surface areas may also or

alternatively be provided on the outside (7).

At this stage, the segmental longitudinal parts (5) are described in greater detail. Each inner rib 11 preferably has the shape of a trapezius. Each of the inner ribs (11) is provided with a bearing surface (13) extending in the longitudinal direction (L) and which, when in use, supports or supports the tube (2). Each inner rib (11) on each side of the bearing surface (13) is provided with an inclined surface (14) extending outwardly from the bearing surface (13). The inclination of each inclined surface (14) includes an angle (γ) with a transverse direction (T) of the segmental longitudinal portion (5), so that the curvature of each internal rib (11) is substantially inhibited when the portion segmental longitudinal line (5) is inserted. The insert will be described later. It can be said that due to the shape of the inner rib (11) and the size of the angle (γ), the inner ribs slide easily over the tube (2) during insertion of the plug (4). The inclination of the inclined surface (14) is

substantially constant from the bearing surface (13), from where it extends to a point (P), where it meets the sloping surface (14) of an adjacent inner rib (11). While it is shown that each inclination of the inclined surface 14 of one of the inner ribs 11 is substantially identical, it is also possible that the inclinations vary slightly. The inclined surfaces (14) of two adjacent inner ribs (11) together form a V-shaped slot, that is, the articulable surface area. In the example shown, all inclinations of all internal ribs (11) are substantially equal. The angle (γ) is between 60 and 80 degrees, preferably between 65 and 77 degrees and even more preferably between 70 and 75 degrees. One end of the cap (4) and each part

longitudinal end (5) may be indicated as the farthest end (17), as that end will be farthest from the part of the duct sleeve (3), in which the cap (4) or the longitudinal parts (5) are inserted. The other end of the plug (4) and each of the longitudinal parts (5) may be referred to as the nearest end (18), as that end remains relative to the farthest end, near the part of the duct sleeve. , in which the insertion of the plug (4) or the longitudinal part (5) occurs.

The outer ribs (8) are individually and substantially shaped like a sawtooth (19) with a lifting surface (20) that rises towards the nearest end (18). Of course, it is possible that only one external rib (8) has the shape of a sawtooth (19) or some but not all external ribs (8) have the jagged shape (19). In the present example, all the outer ribs (8) have the shape of a sawtooth (19). The part (21) of the lifting surface (20), adjacent to the crest (8a) of the sawtooth (19), relative to a part (22) of the lifting surface (20), is located beyond the crest (8a). ), provided with a leveling including an angle (a) with the longitudinal direction (L). Part (21) provides a pressing surface (23) which, when in use, presses against the inner wall (10) of the duct sleeve (3). The pressing surface (23) includes the angle (a) with the longitudinal direction (L). Angle (a) is less than an angle (β) included by the surface of part (22) of the lifting surface (20), located beyond the ridge (8a) and the longitudinal direction (L). The angle (α) in any case is greater than zero.

An encounter of the leveling part (21) and part (22) of the lifting surface (20) forms an outwardly directed curvature (24) located on the lifting surface (20). While in this example the curvature 24 is formed by an encounter of straight surfaces, it is also possible that the curvature is formed by an encounter of surfaces that merge more gradually with respect to the orientation of the surfaces. A descending surface (25) of the sawtooth shape (19) is provided with a portion (26) located relatively far from the ridge (8a) which is designed to be inclined toward the nearest end (18). with respect to a portion (27) of the descending surface (25) adjacent the ridge (8a). The part (27) of the descending surface (25) adjacent to the ridge (8a) of the sawtooth (19) includes an angle (Θ) with a longitudinal direction (L). The angle (Θ) is greater than the angle (ω), which is included by part (26) of the descending surface (25), located beyond the crest (8a) and the longitudinal direction (L).

An encounter (28) of part (27) of the descending surface (25), adjacent to the crest (8a) of the sawtooth (19) and the part (26) of the descending surface (25) located beyond the crest (8a) forms an internally directed curvature (28) located on the descending surface (25). The curvature or encounter (24) is disposed in the transverse direction located beyond and outside the curvature (28). The observation made above for the curvature formed by the encounter (24) is also valid for the curvature (28). That is, a more gradual fusion of part 27 of the descending surface 20 and part 26 is herein also understood to be a curvature. It is further noted that it is also possible to provide a sawtooth (19) with a curvature (28) in the descending surface (25) without the lifting surface (20) of the sawtooth (19) comprising a leveling. It is still visible from figure 4 that a plane

The imaginary transverse of the first type (A) intersects an outer surface (29) on the outer side (7) and a bearing surface (13) on the inner side (6). The outer surface (29) and the bearing surface (13) which intersect the same imaginary transverse plane (A) have a similar extent in the longitudinal direction (L). Throughout the longitudinal direction of the outer surface (29) and / or the bearing surface (13), which intersect the same imaginary transverse plane (A), that outer surface (29) and that bearing surface (13) are substantially parallel to each other.

Figures 5 and 6 schematically show in greater detail how the longitudinal portions (5) and thus the plug (4) cooperate with the inner wall (10) of the duct sleeve (3) and the pipe (2) as received at opening. Figure 5 shows the inner wall (10) of the duct sleeve (3) in cross section, while the sealing plug (4) formed with the help of the longitudinal parts (5) is shown in a view as viewed where a half of the conduit sleeve (3) would have been removed. In general, when the pipe (2) extends through the duct sleeve (3), prior to insertion of the plug (4), the longitudinal portions are tightly applied around the pipe (2) and then by a movement in the longitudinal direction (L), forcibly pushed into space (30), between the inner wall (10) of the duct sleeve (3) and the pipe (2).

Toward the far end (17),

each longitudinal part (5) comprises on the outer side (7) an embedded rib (31), the insertion of which is facilitated. The embedded rib (31) extends to an outer peripheral plane disposed in the transverse direction, with less external intensity than an outer peripheral plane, to which each other outer rib (8) extends.

After pressing in the longitudinal direction (L), the inner ribs (11) will also contact the inner wall of the duct sleeve (3). Particularly, the ridge (8a) and at least one part of the pressing surface (23) will contact the inner wall (10). In order to overcome the frictional forces that occur during insertion, it is often necessary to provide the longitudinal portions and / or the inner wall (10) of the duct sleeve (3) and / or tube (2) with a lubricant such as such as petroleum jelly or a mild soap. Particularly when the inner wall 10 is made of concrete, a satisfactory solution is provided to reduce the high frictional forces.

The plug (4) and the longitudinal parts (5) must be inserted manually. However, in some cases, it may be necessary to move the sealing plug (4) as formed by the longitudinal parts (5) further away in direction (L) by using, for example, a hammer. An auxiliary workpiece made, for example, of wood or hard plastic, and having such a shape that can be freely inserted into the space (30), can be of great help for placement against the nearest end (18). ) of the plug (4) so that the hammer can hammer the farthest workpiece in the longitudinal direction instead of the plug, so the longitudinal parts (5) of the plug (4) will not be damaged by the hammer.

It is evident that when the plug (4) has been fully inserted into the duct sleeve, at least a portion of each pressing surface (23) will be pressed against the inner wall (10) of said duct sleeve (3).

Figure 6 shows, in cross section, the inner wall (10) of the duct sleeve (3). The plug (4), as inserted, is shown in the same plane of cross section. The annular contact surface (12) formed by the bearing surfaces (13) of the longitudinal parts (5) is shown by dashed lines. It is evident that the plug (4) can be inserted much further than shown in figures 5 and 6.

It will also be apparent that any attempt to move the plug (4) as inserted into the duct sleeve (3) more closely, due, for example, to high pressure applied to the farthest end (17), will have the resistance of the frictional forces on the annular contact surfaces (9) and (12) to such movement. It has been found that in some cases a plug (4) mounted from longitudinal portions (5) will resist movement to a pressure of 7 bar if applied to the farthest end (17).

Without wishing to be influenced by any theory, it is believed that the sealing system according to the invention works as follows, in a dynamic model. The illustration of figure 6 should help in understanding this possible operation of the invention. When the nearest end (18) and the distal end (17) of the plug (4), for both a one-piece plug and a plug composed of longitudinal parts (5), the surface area is compressed together. The pivotable (15) responds in the sense that the two adjacent sloping surfaces (14) of two adjacent inner ribs (11) tend to include a smaller angle than prior to compression. The two inner ribs (11), to which the adjacent sloping surfaces (14) belong, experience an inwardly directed transverse force. The width of the annular contact surfaces (12) as a consequence will increase. Width is a dimension of annular contact surfaces in the longitudinal direction. This improves sealing between the plug (4) and the pipe surface (2). However, as tube (2) does not sag, tube (2) exerts a reaction force on the inner ribs (11). One response of the plug 4 is that the outer ribs 8 are pushed outward in a transverse, i.e. radially outward, direction in this example. As a result, a larger surface area of the pressing surface (23) will contact the inner wall (10) of the duct sleeve (3). In other words, the width of the annular contact surface (9) will also increase. Also, in this case, the width is a dimension in the longitudinal direction of the annular contact surfaces (9). Accordingly, the seal between the plug (4) and the inner wall (10) of the duct sleeve (3) is also markedly improved.

It will be readily understood that when the compression of the cap (4) in the longitudinal direction (L) ceases, the cap (4) will tend to loosen back to its position before compression occurs. As such, the system dynamically responds to the compression of the plug in the longitudinal direction by improving the integrity of the seal as the pressure exerted on the farthest and closest ends of the plug increases.

The plug remains somewhat flexible when uncompressed, allowing vibration and shock absorption and a relatively low load is applied to the tube and inner wall of the conduit.

Figures 7 to 11 show further embodiments of a system according to the invention. In such embodiments, the system further comprises a locking element (37) to prevent, when in use, an external pressure gradient from being present between both ends of the plug with movement of the downstream end of the plug downstream of the gradient. pressure.

Figure 7 shows an embodiment of a system according to the invention, being suitable in a situation where the dangerous side of the division (1) is known. In this situation, high pressure is expected to occur, and when it does, it occurs in compartment (II) rather than compartment (I). The system comprises a locking element (37) to prevent, when in use, an external pressure gradient from being present between both ends (17), (18) of the cap (4), with movement of the downstream end (17). ) of the cap (4) downstream of the pressure gradient. In other words, when a high pressure is present in the housing (II) and a low pressure is present in the housing (I), the cap (4) will be compressed by moving the nearest end (18) towards the most distant end ( 17). Thus, when the pressure in housing (II) is too high, the plug will compress and the annular contact surfaces (9), (12) will expand, as explained when discussing Figure 6. In this particular embodiment, the locking element (37) is fixed to the duct sleeve (3). In fact, in this embodiment, the locking element (37) can still be considered as a part of the duct sleeve (3). Although the locking element (37) may be welded to the duct sleeve (3), it is preferred that the duct sleeve (3) and the locking element (37) are formed by a machining process. The inner wall of the duct sleeve (3) preferably has a surface with a low coefficient of friction whose surface may have been polished. This facilitates movement of the nearest end (18) toward the far end (17) and thereby compression of the plug (4) in the longitudinal direction (L). In this embodiment, the locking element 37 is substantially annular in shape. One side of the locking element (37) facing the farthest end (17) of the plug (4) may at least partially have a shape that corresponds to the shape of the farthest end (17) and the rib. processing (31) of the buffer (4). It is further important to note that the locking element should not extend too radially from within to prevent contact with the pipe (2), not only when the pipe (2) has already been inserted into the duct sleeve (3), but, also when the pipe (2) is being inserted into the duct sleeve (3). To avoid any damage to the pipe (2), in case the pipe (2) makes contact with the locking element (37), the locking element has rounded edges. Another embodiment of a system according to the invention is shown in FIG. 8. This embodiment is also suitable for a situation where the dangerous side is known, that is, the high pressure is expected to occur in compartment (II) rather than compartment (I). In this embodiment, the duct sleeve (3) and the locking element (37) are separate parts. The duct sleeve (3) is provided with a radially outwardly extending collar (3a) from one end of the duct sleeve (3) through which, in use, the farthest end (17) of the cap will be wrapped. The locking element 37 may comprise two parts which together form in use an annular retaining ring. The ring can be fixed around the pipe (2) and the collar (3a) of the duct sleeve (3) once the pipe has been inserted, for example by using bolts and nuts, properly aligned with drilled holes, respectively on retaining ring (37) and collar (3a). While it is shown that the locking element may extend radially inward a little closer to tube (2), it is still preferred that a retaining ring has a much smaller radial extension inwardly. It is also preferred that the edges of the retaining ring facing the tube (2) are rounded. If the duct sleeve (3) is a very long duct sleeve, that is, larger than the length of the plug (4), it is preferred that a rubber sleeve is first inserted into the annular space between the inner wall of the duct sleeve. conduit (3) and pipe (2), prior to fixing the locking element (37). This rubber glove (not shown in figure 8) wraps around the tube (2) and ensures that in the case of very high pressure in the housing (II), unlike the pressure in the housing (I), the cap (4) need not be move through the full length of the duct sleeve (3) before compression of the plug (4) occurs. Instead, compression can begin almost immediately, leading to rapid response from the dynamic sealing system. An improvement in seal integrity may then be in line with the proposed mechanism when discussing Figure 6.

Figure 9 shows an embodiment of a system according to the invention which is suitable for a situation where it is unknown which sides of the room (1) a hazardous event may approach the pipe sleeve (3). This mode is particularly suitable for resisting a fire that may break out on either side of the room (1). The system comprises two buffers (4). One of these two plugs (4) is inserted from the housing (I) into the duct sleeve (3) and the other plug (4) is inserted from the housing (II) into the duct sleeve (3). In this embodiment, the locking element (37) is situated between the two plugs (4). While it is possible that the locking element (37) is again a retaining ring which, for example, is welded to an inner wall (10) of the duct sleeve (3), it is also possible, as shown, that the opening in division (1) is actually smaller than the diameter of the duct sleeve (3), which is coaxially welded around a perimeter of the smallest opening in division (1). A part of the division (1) is then inside the duct sleeve (3) acting as a retaining ring, that is, as a locking element (37). While, again, the locking element 37 as shown extends radially inward to a greater degree, it is preferred that the radial extension into the locking element is somewhat shorter.

Figure 10 shows an embodiment of a system according to the invention which is also suitable for a situation in which the dangerous event, such as a fire, can approach the duct glove on which side is unknown. (3). The system again comprises locking elements (37) which are as shown attachable to the duct sleeve (3) in the manner described when the embodiment of figure 8 is discussed. It is preferred that the volume of air drawn into the duct sleeve (3) between the farthest end (17) of the two plugs (4) is as small as possible. This can be achieved by providing a duct sleeve (3) having a length that is slightly larger than the full length of the two plugs (4), or by inserting a rubber sleeve (shown in dashed lines) into the sleeve. conduit (3) so that the sleeve is positioned between the two plugs (4). The air gap between the plugs (4) acts as thermal insulation. If, as a result of thermal expansion, air pressure is built into the air gap, the air gap itself can function as a blocking element, facilitating compression of the cap experiencing a high pressure on the nearest end (18). . This can still occur without thermal expansion. In particular, in situations where the air clearance volume is small, a further slight reduction of this volume will increase the air pressure attracted at the clearance. Thus, the spacing may function as a locking element.

Finally, Figure 11 shows one embodiment of a system according to the invention, wherein the duct sleeve itself is shorter. In this embodiment, the plugs (4) are individually provided with an annular slot extending from the outside of the plug (4), directed inwards in a transverse direction. This inclination is provided between the outer rib closest to the nearest end (18) of the plug (4) and the nearest end (18) itself. After insertion of the plug (4), this annular slot may receive, as shown, the locking element (37), which is then lockable to the collar (3a) of the duct sleeve (3), as described when discussing the embodiment shown. in figure 8.

It will be apparent that the locking element (37) which is attachable to the duct sleeve (3) is preferably a multi-part element or at least one element that can surround a tube without the need for sliding of the element. locking over the pipe at one end of said pipe. An additional locking element (37) may be provided between the plugs (4), but this is not required.

When an explosion occurs in housing (II), the embodiment shown in FIG. 9, FIG. 10 and FIG. 11 will ensure that at least the plug in the conduit sleeve extending and facing compartment (I) will remain. in the duct sleeve (3) when the entire room is moved within the direction of the housing (I) along the longitudinal direction (L). The embodiment shown in FIG. 10 and FIG. 11 will hold both plugs (4), regardless of the direction in which room (1) is exploded along the longitudinal direction (L). A particular advantage is that not only is there a dynamic response of the sealing system available, but also that in a situation where the entire room is moved in a longitudinal direction (L) due, for example, to an explosion, the glove conduit (3), including plugs (4), will also move upwardly with division (1) during said movement.

The elastic material employed for producing the segmental longitudinal parts (5), that is, for the plug (4), is preferably of a fire resistant quality. Rubber may be designated because it expands after exposure to high temperatures. It is also possible to use silicon rubber. A suitable EPDM may also be employed. The hardness may, for example, be 70 Shore A. Any rubber with sufficient flexibility and a compression structure similar to the EPDM compression structure is suitable. Also, an electrically conductive rubber is within range. During the manufacture of the longitudinal parts, use will normally be made of a suitable mold for this purpose. Such a production process is known per se. For example, injection molding or compression molding methods may be used. The locking element may be made of metal, but where the locking element is attachable to the duct sleeve (3), it may be made of a hard plastic such as, for example, polyetherimide (PEI). ) or, alternatively, polyethersulfonamide (PES).

The invention is not limited to the embodiment shown above. For example, the plugs may be suitable for sealing a duct sleeve through which a plurality of pipes extend. Further reference is made to WO 2004/111513, in particular to the plug figures designated for space filling in a conduit through which more than one pipe extends and to figure 17 as discussed below.

Although preferably the sealing plug (4) has a substantially cylindrical design, a deviation of this shape is also within the possibilities. Thus, the system may be designed such that it is suitable for duct gloves that are square and / or rectangular. Suitable embodiments for multi-angle duct gloves are not excluded. Even modalities for non-circular duct gloves, for example oval in shape, are within the scope. The same is true for suitability conditions with respect to the pipes, cables, and ducts to be fed through the duct sleeve. The system may be designed so that when in use, pipes and similar devices with a cross-section other than a circular shape may be enclosed by the plug. If desired, the person skilled in the art will be able to adjust the dimensions to the required circumstances.

The manner in which the locking element is fixed or may be fixed to the duct sleeve may be according to several different mechanisms. The locking element can be fixed to the duct sleeve by welding. However, the locking element can also be fixed to the duct sleeve by integrally connecting it as a result of being machined from a single piece of metal or being molded into a single mold. The locking element 37 may be secured, for example, by a mechanical connection, using, for example, one or more screws, or a bolt mechanism, as is well known in the art.

One embodiment of a system according to the invention provides a sealed passageway for a situation where one or a plurality of cables, pipes or ducts extend through the passageway. Reference is made to figures 12-16. In that particular embodiment, the system comprises a structure (100) which is sealedly fixed (not shown) or that is fixable within or in an opening. It will be explained later how such a structure may be fixed within or in an opening. Structure (100) basically comprises a plurality of conduits (203). Figure 1 and Figures 5 to 11 show, as discussed above, only embodiments comprising as a conduit (3) a single conduit sleeve (3). These figures also show a structure (100). However, the structure shown in these figures comprises only one duct sleeve (3). Consequently, each of these structures comprises a single conduit.

Each conduit shown in the drawings of this patent application report is suitable for receiving at least one of a plurality of cables, pipes or ducts (2). Each duct is further suitable for receiving the elastically deformable plug (4), for sealingly filling the space (30) between the inner peripheral wall (10) of the duct and the cables, tubes or ducts (2) extending through it. this conduit. Also, the system shown in figures 12-16 comprises at least one locking element (37) for preventing in each conduit (203) the movement of one end of a plug (4) that is inserted in said conduit (203).

Figure 13 shows a section view

taken along line 1-1 as seen in the direction of the arrow (V) as shown in figure 12. it is apparent that the locking elements (37) are individually secured to the frame (100). Indeed, in the embodiment shown in Figures 12 and 13, each locking element (37) is integrally connected to the frame (100). The locking elements (37) are individually fixed within one of the conduits (203). The embodiment shown in figures 12-16 can be manufactured by machining the ducts 203 into a single block of material. At one end of the block, the conduits 203 are narrower than at the other end of said block. The decrease in diameter of the conduit (203) provides the locking element (37). The diameter of the conduit 203 is shown in Figure 13 by the dashed line of the arrow indicated by "D". The diameter of the conduit 203 at the position of the locking element 37 is shown by the dashed arrow line indicated by the reference "d". The frame 100 and all locking elements 37 comprise in the present embodiment a single piece.

The peripheral wall (10) of each duct sleeve (3) preferably has a surface with a low coefficient of friction, formed, for example, by a suitable machining process. This facilitates insertion of the plug (4) and accelerates the response of the plug (4), as described above, upon sudden high pressure exerted on the nearest end of the plug (4). In the embodiment shown in figures 12-16, the

frame (100) and all locking elements (37) together comprise a single piece. The block of material from which this structure is machined preferably is steel or aluminum. This allows the frame 100 to be welded to a similar counterpart material, of which, for example, a division is made. The frame may be provided with a flange (F), as shown schematically in the dashed lines in figure 16, for welding the frame (100) to a building element (not shown). Such a flange may provide a damping zone (Z) for accommodating thermal stresses occurring during or after welding, thereby avoiding excessive change in conduit dimensions (203). However, it is also possible for this damping zone to be provided by providing the locking element (37) at a relatively long distance from the position of the frame (100), which could be affected by the welding procedure. The schematic embodiment shown in Figure 15 shows that the ring-shaped locking element 37 is positioned away from the positions P in which the frame 100 can be welded against a split. The damping zone Z can of course also be provided by the locking element 37 itself, as shown schematically in Figure 13.

Also, in transverse directions, frame 100 may be provided with a damping zone (Z), with or without flange (F). In this respect, the minimum thickness "t" of the structure between two neighboring ducts is thinner than the minimum material structure (T) situated between the outer side face (104) and a nearest duct (203). The flange (F) is also suitable for cases where the structure is preferably bolted to a part of a room surrounding an opening. The flange (F) is furthermore suitable for openings having dimensions that cannot be covered by the frame without the flange (F). When applying the bolting action, a sealing gasket as known in the art is used.

While Figures 12-14 show a structure (100) having sixteen conduits (203), any number of conduits (203) are possible. Figures 15 and 16 show a structure (100) showing a structure (100) with respectively four and nine conduits (203). It is evident that a structure 100 may be of any suitable shape, that is, not necessarily a square shape, but may also be an elongate shape or for example a round or hexagonal shape. A rectangular shaped structure is probably best suited for possible applications. While it may be convenient to provide the ducts 203 in "rows and columns", also, a honeycomb or other form of "densely formed package" of the ducts 203 within the structure 100 is conceivable. An optimal arrangement will be easily found by a person skilled in the art. Some factors, such as the strength of the structure and the probable pressure that occurs in each duct, besides the weight of the structure, are considered important in obtaining an optimized model for the structure. The ducts receive when in use, preferably each plug in its entirety, so that there is no need to administer a transverse size of a plug upon its removal from the ducts.

Although in Figures 12-16 all structures are shown to have similarly sized conduits 203, it is possible that the conduits 203 have different sizes. It should be noted that it is not necessary for all ducts 203 to be of circular cross-section, and other cross-sectional shapes are possible. As shown in figure 16, the

plugs (4) may be suitable for filling the space (30) between the inner wall (10) of the conduits (203) and a number of pipes (2) extending through such conduit (203). An example of a three part plug is shown in figure 17.

It is not necessary that from the outset all

conduits 203 of a frame 100 have one or more tubes extending therein. It is possible that the structure

(100) is sufficiently large and comprises a relatively large number of conduits (203) and which

indeed, more than immediately necessary, when the frame (100) is installed. It is possible that some conduits (203) may be provided with a so-called blind plug.

(101) for sealingly filling a conduit (203) which is at least temporarily free of

of cables, pipes or ducts extending therein. When an extra cable needs to be inserted through the frame, or an cable needs to be removed, there is no need to completely disassemble the sealed passage. These operations may be performed on one or a few conduits (203) involved, without impairing sealing on the other conduits.

Everything discussed for a system comprising a conduit 203 as shown in FIG. 1 and FIGS. 5-11 also applies to a structure 100 having more than one conduit 203. Thus, the locking element (37) may be a separate part of the system and may be lockable to the frame (100). The locking element, for example, may be a plate made of a rigid material and provided with hollow recesses, each having a diameter smaller than the diameter of the respective conduits 203 of the frame 100, in which the plate may be be fixed. Fastening, for example, can be done by using screws and threaded holes provided in the frame 100 at predetermined positions.

When the system comprises a structure (100) having more than one conduit (203), it is also provided that the system comprises additional locking elements to prevent in each conduit (203) an equal and simultaneous movement of both ends of the cap ( 4) with respect to the conduit 203 in which the plug is inserted. Usually and preferably, this additional locking element (37) will be attachable to the frame (100).

The system may comprise the elastically deformable plugs (4) as plug and seal elements which may be inserted into one of the duct sleeves (3). Preferably, each of the conduits 203 has an extension, as indicated by the dashed line of arrow 102 in FIG. 13, suitable for receiving a plug 4 in its entirety. As shown in figures 9, 10 and 11, each conduit may have an extension that is suitable for receiving two adjacent or adjacent plugs (4) in the axial / longitudinal directions. This also applies to a frame 100 as discussed based on figures 12-16.

It may also be the case that the frame (100) has a number of conduits (203) and at least a portion of the locking element (37) is positioned in the respective conduits (203) so that on each side of the element 37, each conduit 203 has an extension that is suitable for receiving a plug in its entirety. If the conduit (203) is suitable for receiving a plug in its entirety, the nearest end of the plug may be flush with the front side of the frame (100). Suitable buffers (4) may be presented as described earlier in this specification.

Ideally, all conduits 203 are identical. In this case, the dimensions of the plugs (4) may at least with respect to their external diameter also be identical.

Finally, as mentioned above, the frame 100 may indeed be made of metal, but alternatively may be made of a technical plastic such as a hard plastic comprising polyetherimide (PEI) or alternatively , polyethersulfonamide (PES). Such structures may be employed, for example, in onshore constructions, and may be placed in or over openings in a concrete wall, with the help of a suitable sealing kit, which is well known in the art. Also, a mode with the flange (F) may use a technical plastic. In this case, the flange will be suitably arranged by bolting the structure, preferably using a gasket, to the divider construction member.

From the description given above, it is evident that the system according to the invention is free of a clamping element. The plugs may be hermetically positioned after increasing pressure applied to one or both ends of the plug. However, it is indicated that such tightening occurs after pressure increase through the medium (such as a gas or fluid), whatsoever, the plugs and the system in general should block rather than a deliberately applied element with the simple purpose of tightening the plugs.

All such variations discussed above are to be understood as falling within the scope of the invention which is defined by the appended claims.

Claims (17)

System for providing a sealed passageway for a situation in which one or a plurality of cables, pipes or ducts extend through said passageway, characterized in that the system comprises a sealing structure which is fixed or may be fixed in or over an aperture, wherein the structure comprises a plurality of conduits, which are individually suitable for receiving at least one of said plurality of cables, tubes or ducts, and for receiving an elastically deformable space sealing plug between an inner peripheral wall of the conduit and at least one of said plurality of cables, tubes or ducts, wherein the system further comprises at least one resiliently deformable plug that can be inserted and sealed in one of the conduits wherein the plug has two ends, namely a proximal end and a distal end and an outer side and an inner side, ca having dimensions allowing each end to fit into the duct, the outer side comprising a number of outer ribs having spaced apart ridges in a longitudinal direction of the plug for implementation of annular contact surfaces between the plug and the peripheral wall inner side of the conduit, the inner side comprising a number of inner ribs having spaced apart ridges in a longitudinal direction of the plug for implementation of annular contact surfaces between the plug and at least said cable, tube or duct extend through the duct sleeve, wherein the inner side and / or the outer side are provided with at least one hinged surface area to facilitate compression of the plug in the longitudinal direction and in a transverse movement of at least one of the ribs wherein the system further comprises at least one locking element. which is integrally connected to the structure, to prevent in each downstream duct movement a pressure gradient at one end of the plug as inserted in such a duct such that the plug is compressed by movement from the nearest end to the most distant end. . System according to the preceding claim, characterized in that at least one locking element comprises a certain number of elements shaped substantially in ring shape. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each of the ducts has an inner peripheral wall with a surface having a low coefficient of friction. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the structure is made of steel or aluminum. System according to Claim 4, characterized in that the structure is provided with a flange for welding the structure to a steel or aluminum construction element, or for bolting the structure to a divider construction element. System according to either of Claims 4 or 5, characterized in that the structure is provided with a damping zone for accommodating thermal stresses which occur during and / or after welding, thereby avoiding excessive alteration of the conduit dimensions. System according to any of claims 1-6, characterized in that all conduits are identical. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the system comprises at least one additional locking element to prevent simultaneous and equal movement of both ends of a plug with respect to each conduit. to the duct sleeve, in which the plug is inserted. 9. The system of claim 8 wherein at least one further locking element may be attached to the structure. System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each of the ducts has an extension that is suitable for receiving the entire plug. System according to Claim 10, characterized in that each conduit has an extension which is suitable for receiving two neighboring plugs in the axial direction. System according to claim 11, characterized in that each conduit has a portion of at least one locking element positioned in the conduit, so that on each side of the locking element the conduit has an extension that is suitable for fully receiving a tampon. System according to Claim 1, characterized in that the pivoting surface is provided with two adjacent sloping surfaces of two adjacent ribs. System according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the foldable surface is provided on the inner side. System according to claim 1, 13 or 14, characterized in that the plug is an assembly of at least two segmental longitudinal parts. System according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the system is further provided with at least one blind plug to sealably seal a duct sleeve which is at least temporarily free of cables, pipes or ducts extending through it. System according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the system is free of a clamping element.